Federal Drug Commissioner Streeck Pledges Aid for Major Cities in Addressing Crack Cocaine Use
Hamburg, September 21, 2026 – Federal Drug Commissioner Hendrik Streeck (CDU) announced on Monday during a visit to Hamburg that major cities will receive support in managing issues related to crack cocaine users. Streeck, accompanied by Social Senator Melanie Schlotzhauer (SPD), toured the Drob Inn facility located near the main train station.
“We recognize the pressure on large cities,” Streeck stated, emphasizing his intention to bring all stakeholders together. The goal is to establish joint pilot projects for addressing crack cocaine use. Streeck mentioned that a concept for these projects is already in place, though he did not disclose specific details.
Hamburg Advocates for New Regulations in Drug Consumption Rooms
Streeck refrained from commenting on Hamburg’s initiative to the Bundesrat. Hamburg proposes legalizing the transfer of small quantities of drugs within consumption rooms, a practice currently strictly prohibited. This proposal stems from the Social Authority’s observation that crack cocaine is often consumed communally from a single pipe, and the aim is to move this activity off the streets, thereby alleviating pressure on areas like St. Georg.
Drob Inn: A Nearly 40-Year History of Support
The Drob Inn facility will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year. It integrates drug consumption rooms with medical assistance and social counseling. Concurrently, its surrounding area is frequently cited as a negative example of urban decay in major cities.
Streeck and Schlotzhauer also visited Pier27, a specialized psychiatric outpatient clinic in the Münzviertel district. Operational since April of this year, this facility primarily serves individuals with mental illnesses who have historically struggled to access standard healthcare services.
Hamburg Senate’s Plans for Drug Consumption Rooms
The Hamburg Senate is planning a Bundesrat initiative to redirect drug consumption from public spaces into existing consumption rooms. This move aims to centralize and manage drug use in controlled environments.
Closure of Drug Aid Facilities in Altona
In Altona-Nord, the “Palette” drop-in center is unexpectedly closing, and the “Malteser Nordlicht” residential facility in Bahrenfeld is also scheduled to close soon. These closures will impact the local drug aid landscape.
New Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic for Vulnerable Populations
A new specialized psychiatric outpatient clinic in Hamburg will open its doors to homeless, unhoused, and drug-dependent individuals suffering from mental illnesses. This facility aims to provide crucial support to a population that often faces significant barriers to healthcare.
The issue of drug addiction and mental health support remains a critical concern for Hamburg and other major German cities, prompting ongoing efforts from federal and local authorities to develop effective strategies and provide necessary resources.
